Spotsylvania, VA – A Spotsylvania County man was arrested after investigators allegedly discovered child sexual abuse material stored and potentially shared online, according to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, the investigation began Sunday when the Sheriff’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) unit received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Deputies said the report indicated that images of child sexual abuse were being uploaded and stored through an online account.
Investigators obtained a search warrant for a residence in the 9200 block of Thurston Lane, where multiple electronic devices were seized. Deputies said Dennis Buchanan, 72, of Spotsylvania, was arrested and charged with two counts of possession, reproduction, distribution, solicitation, and facilitation of child pornography, as well as one count of reproduction and distribution of child pornography.
Authorities said the case remains under investigation and that Buchanan could face additional charges as forensic analysis of the seized devices continues.
The Sheriff’s Office noted it is part of the Northern Virginia-District of Columbia Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, a coalition of local, state and federal agencies dedicated to combating online child exploitation. Officials urged the public to report suspected child abuse or exploitation through hotlines including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678 or the Spotsylvania County Department of Social Services.
“This case is a reminder of how critical these partnerships are in protecting children from exploitation,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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